In a nutshell
The authors determined the effect of cryoablation in locally recurrent (return of cancer to or near the original site) prostate cancer following radiotherapy.
Some background
Radiotherapy is a common treatment used in prostate cancer. It involves directing a beam of radiation at the tumor site in order to kill cancer cells. This causes minimal damage to the healthy cells. Cryoablation is another treatment for prostate cancer. This involves administering an extremely cold fluid to the tumor site to damage or kill cancer cells. In some cases, cryoablation can be given after primary treatments have failed.
Biochemical failure can be described as an increase in prostate specific antigen (PSA) after treatment. PSA is a protein elevated in the blood, when prostate cancer is present. Increased levels of PSA after treatment indicate that prostate cancer has returned.
Methods & findings
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of cryoablation in prostate cancer patients after radiotherapy.
Data from 91 patients were used in this study with an average follow-up time of 15 months. 15.2% of patients experienced biochemical failure. Biochemical disease-free survival (patients who survived without PSA increase following the treatment) was 95.3% at 1 year. It was 72.4% at 3 years and 46.5% at 5 years.
28.6% of patients had positive biopsies (tissue sample indicating presence of cancer) after cryoablation. 6.6% of patients could not empty their bladder after treatment. 1.1% of patients required surgery to overcome urinary complications. 5.5% of patients experienced a loss of urinary control. 3.3% of patients had an abnormal hole between their bladder and rectum.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that cryoablation is an effective treatment option for locally recurrent prostate cancer.
The fine print
The number of patients in this study was low (91). Larger study groups are required for results to be widely applied.
What’s next?
If you are considering cryoablation as a treatment option, please consult your doctor for potential risks and benefits.
Published By :
Prostate
Date :
Oct 04, 2014
